Han birdies six to lead China Open

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Chang-won Han.

CHENGDU, China -- South Korea's Han Chang-won shot an 8-under 64 on Thursday to take a one-stroke lead in the suspended first round of the China Open.

Han had six birdies in a front-nine 30 on the Luxehills International Country Club course.

Northern Ireland's Gareth Maybin, England's James Morrison, Wales' Bradley Dredge and Denmark's Soren Kjeldsen opened with 65s in the event sanctioned by the European Tour, China Golf Association and OneAsia Tour. South Africa's Keith Horne also was 7 under with four holes play.

Heavy morning mist delayed the start an hour and 24 players were unable to finish before dark. Defending champion Y.E. Yang and Chinese star Liang Wen-chong opened with 68s, and three-time major champion Padraig Harrington had a 71. Ronald Harvey, of Sussex, N.B., had a 75 and is tied for 139th.